In a landmark development for Kashmir’s transportation network, Northern Railways has successfully operated the first loaded freight train at Anantnag Railway Station. This event marks the operational debut of the newly commissioned Banihal-Sangaldan-Reasi-Katra section of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
With this achievement, the Kashmir rail network is now fully integrated with the Indian Railways freight corridor, enabling seamless movement of goods across the country into the Valley. This development is expected to significantly boost economic activity by opening new trade avenues, reducing transportation costs for businesses and essential commodities, and ensuring uninterrupted year-round supply despite challenging weather conditions. It also strengthens regional connectivity within the national rail framework.
The USBRL project, spanning a total length of 272 kilometers, covers key districts including Udhampur, Reasi, Ramban, Srinagar, Anantnag, Pulwama, Budgam, and Baramulla in Jammu and Kashmir. It is considered one of the most challenging railway projects undertaken in India since independence due to the difficult terrain of the young Himalayas, which present numerous geological challenges.
Among the project’s engineering marvels are the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab River in Reasi district — an iconic structure stretching 1,315 meters with an arch span of 467 meters and standing 359 meters above the riverbed. Additionally, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge has been constructed over the Anji Khad, with a deck 331 meters above the riverbed and a main pylon height of 193 meters.
The USBRL project has also contributed significantly to the socio-economic development of the region, generating over 5 crore man-days of employment. It includes the construction of more than 215 kilometers of approach roads, tunnels, and 320 small bridges, improving connectivity and access for local communities.
Safety has been prioritized in the project, with all tunnels longer than 2 kilometers equipped with mechanical ventilation systems to maintain air quality. Firefighting infrastructure, including hydrants and extinguishers, is installed in all tunnels. Moreover, escape tunnels totaling 66 kilometers have been constructed for tunnels exceeding 3 kilometers in length to ensure passenger safety.
This milestone heralds a new era of connectivity and economic opportunity for Jammu and Kashmir, strengthening its integration with the broader Indian railway network. (Agencies)
